The Best Dog Kennels
Setting up a spot where your dog can go to rest and get away from the action is extremely important whether you're at home or traveling. While some dogs are social butterflies, others would rather keep to themselves, so giving them a place of their own will ensure that they're always able to escape if they want to. Finding a dog kennel to fit your specific situation can be difficult, so we've done some research to help you out. Whether you have a large dog or a miniature one, we know you'll find something that will work for you and your pup. While we were researching dog kennels, we found that the best ones are durable, breathable, and easy to clean. With these things in mind, our favorite dog kennel comes from SportPet Designs and comes in a variety of sizes to fit your dog. The hardshell design is sturdy and easy to disassemble to clean the plastic pieces. It also has three openings in addition to the door to let in plenty of air. We also love the dog kennel from MidWest Homes for Pets because this durable metal design folds down flat to simplify traveling with your furry friend. Keep reading to discover your new favorite dog kennel.
SportPet Designs Plastic Kennel
This durable plastic dog kennel from SportPet Designs is the perfect way to keep your pet safe and comfortable. The hard outer shell can be split in two using the outer tabs to make it easy to clean out the inside of the kennel. This design comes with four wheels and handles to make it easy to transport with your dog inside. It even comes with two plastic dishes that attach to the door for serving food and water. Choose the right size for your pooch and get ready for them to make themselves right at home.
Pros:
- This dog kennel is sturdy enough to use on airplanes if you are traveling long distances with your dog. The kennel can be checked in and will be placed under the plane with the luggage.
- We like that the wheels are removable and can be locked if you need the kennel to stay put.
Cons:
- The floor of the kennel isn’t level so a bed or blanket will need to be added for comfort.
Petmate Aspen Pet Traditional Kennel
This kennel from Petmate makes traveling a breeze if you have a small or medium-sized dog. Designed for comfort, this kennel is ventilated on all four sides and allows your pet to stand up or lay down comfortably wherever it’s set up. The front door uses a metal locking mechanism that requires little effort to squeeze and open the kennel. Give your dog the personal space they desire with this cozy crate.
Pros:
- We love how easy it is to assemble this kennel since it uses simple screws and fasteners that don’t require additional tools.
- The enclosed style of this kennel will help to dampen external sounds and create a cavelike atmosphere for your dog. They will love this especially if they are anxious or sensitive to changes in their environment.
Cons:
- This kennel doesn’t come with food and water bowls that can be attached to the inside of the door.
Horing Pop Up Pet Playpen
Pack up this dog kennel from Horing to take with you on road trips or to a friend’s house so your pup always has a place to call their own. This eight-sided collapsible kennel is made from a durable plastic material that is wear-resistant and easy to wipe clean. Since it has breathable sides, this dog kennel can be set up anywhere but it is great for outdoor use as it helps to keep out mosquitos and other pesky insects. Once you fill this kennel with your dog’s favorite toys they won’t ever want to leave.
Pros:
- We like that this kennel has two zippered openings to allow your pet more freedom to move in and out.
- Ground stakes are included if you’d like to set this up outdoors when you go camping with your dog or just in your backyard.
Cons:
- The lining on the floor of the kennel is very thin and would likely wear out quickly without an added layer of protection.
Lucky Dog Uptown Welded Wire Outdoor Dog Kennel
Free to roam
If you have an unfenced backyard or are worried about your dog escaping from your property, this is the dog kennel for you. At four feet wide, eight feet long, and six feet tall, this giant kennel will work for every breed of dog. This structure is made from alloy steel and will stay put whether it’s set up on grass, dirt, or even concrete. Plus, this dog kennel comes with a waterproof cover that attaches to the walls to keep your furry friend safe inside.
Pros:
- This dog kennel can be assembled in 30 minutes or less using the pre-assembled modular panels and hand tightening clamps. This means you won’t need any tools to put it together.
- We like that each of the legs is raised 1.5 inches from the ground to make it easy to clean underneath the entire edge of the kennel. This is especially important if you have the kennel set up indoors or on a concrete pad.
Cons:
- This dog kennel is not as affordable as smaller options available for purchase.
MidWest Homes for Pets Folding Dog Crate
This dog kennel from MidWest Homes for Pets is a great option if you want to get your dog used to sleeping and resting in their crate. The metal design is secure while also being comfortable thanks to the open sides. If you’re still working on potty training your pup, the plastic leakproof pan will be a lifesaver, and it’s so easy to clean. This crate folds down flat so you can bring it with you and set it up when you’re away from home. Teach your dog that this is their safe space so they’ll be able to take refuge in their kennel wherever you take them.
Pros:
- This dog kennel comes with a divider that can be inserted to decrease the size of the space. This means you can buy a large kennel for your puppy and move the divider as they grow instead of buying multiple kennels along the way.
- We like that there is a handle on the side of the kennel that makes it easy to carry when it is folded down.
Cons:
- This kennel doesn’t come with a breathable crate cover to help your dog feel more secure inside.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of kennel should I buy for my dog?
This will depend on the size of your dog and their personal temperament. If you plan to train your dog to be comfortable in a kennel at times throughout the day and to sleep in it at night, we recommend getting a plastic or metal kennel designed for indoor use. These kennels can be customized to include a comfortable bed to help your dog understand that this is their space to sleep and relax. If you want your dog to spend a lot of time outside or if you foster dogs that need to be separate from each other when you’re not home, we recommend a larger kennel that can be used in a garage or outdoors.
Can I take my dog on the airplane with me?
Traveling with your dog can be an expensive undertaking but it can definitely be done. If you are moving temporarily or permanently to a new area, taking your dog with you is a must. Small dogs can usually be placed in carry-on dog bags and slid under the seat for the duration of the flight. Since larger dogs don’t have this option, most airlines accept plastic hardshell kennels as checked luggage that go under the plane. Make sure that you confirm your dog’s travel plans with the airline before you arrive at the airport to ensure everything is settled for your flight.
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